CONSERVATION INNOVATION GRANTS (CIG) CLASSIC PROGRAM
Grant Opportunity Analysis
The Natural Resources Conservation Service is offering the Conservation Innovation Grants Classic Program to support the development and adoption of innovative conservation approaches and technologies in agricultural production. The program funds projects that transfer conservation technologies, management systems, and other innovative approaches to agricultural producers through technical manuals, guides, and practical instruction for the private sector. Projects are expected to focus on areas such as farmer-focused conservation, water management, soil health, habitat improvement, and pest management, with applications reviewed on purpose, approach, management, and transferability and subject to a 50% non-federal cost share. Eligible applicants are non-federal entities and individuals in the United States, with awards expected to run 1 to 3 years and begin around September 2026. Applications are due through Grants.gov by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on July 27, 2026, and the program anticipates about 18 to 22 awards ranging from $250,000 to $2,000,000 from $15 million in total funding.
Eligible Applicants
This opportunity is open to all non-Foreign applicants, except US Federal Government Entities.The following applicants are considered ineligible:• Foreign organizations and foreign public entities, and• “Partnerships” or other similar groupings (i.e., application must be submitted by a single entity; a partner may serve as a subrecipient).